German Journalist, Ethiopians Hail Peace between Eritrea and Ethiopia

99
Addis Ababa July 17/2018 A German journalist and two Ethiopians, who attended the peace heralding forum held at the Millennium Hall in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy and President Isaias on Sunday, hailed the peace agreement made between the two countries. Africa correspondent of the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, Bernd Dorries told ENA on the occasion that this is probably “the happiest day for the two countries in decades.” The world is watching something unimaginable happening between Ethiopia and Eritrea and “it is really good news coming from here,” he added. Dorries stated that Ethiopia has been stable, but not with Eritrea. Now “the two countries could be an anchor of peace in the region. It could change the whole region.” The journalist added that this relationship could positively contribute to resolving other prevailing conflicts in the region under IGAD and AU collaborations. The Ethiopian lady who was born and brought up in Asmara, Aster Meseret,  fled to Ethiopia 22 years ago leaving behind her families. Following the peace agreement, she is planning to visit her family and relatives in Abashawol, Asmara. Aster said “Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed demolished the unthinkable wall…I call Abiy ‘Moses’ for letting us cross the (new) bridge.” The other Ethiopian who ululated for a long time in the hall, Alganesh Gebretinsae praised God and the Prime Minister for peaceful relations and said “both the sky and earth are singing for peace.” It is time for togetherness. In the historic peace heralding forum, about 25,000 people attended the program and various musicians presented their works. Earlier Prime Minister Abiy said learning from past mistakes and advancing for future progress with full heart is expected from all of us to reach the aspired developments. “There is no force that can separate Ethiopia and Eritrea”, he stressed, adding that the agreement can also bring hope for Africans and pave the way for development. Eritrean President, Isaias Afeworki said the countries will work in cooperation for peace and development. By learning from shared history and culture, Eritrea and Ethiopia are ready to defeat the conspiracy to create hate, revenge and destruction between the countries, he stated. The countries do not permit anyone to interfere and mess up their peaceful relations and developments, Isaias stressed. The President pointed out that the leaders “will work together to achieve mutual development and prosperity. We are committed to march forward in all aspects and fronts.”
Ethiopian News Agency
2023